Whether you are moving into your first home or are switching homes, the joy of having a fresh start is all the same.
The process of moving can take some time, but with the proper preparation, getting it done efficiently and quickly should be no problem. There are numerous steps you can take to ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. However, the best way to make that happen is to plan ahead.
We have compiled some helpful tips to help you on your moving journey to ensure organizing your move is a breeze.
Start Planning in Advance
From the moment you know you are moving, or even planning to move, start your preparations. Look at all of your belongings and decide what is coming with you and what you can start packing. The idea of tackling your entire home may feel like a lot, but if you start early, you can slowly widdle away and get through it all before moving day.
Do Some Research
Start by looking into each service you may need: movers, real estate agents, contractors. Once you know all the services you will need to complete the move, start shopping around. Get at least three quotes from each service provider, so you can get a good idea of what general prices are. You can then start looking into referrals and other things that will decide which provider to choose.
Make a Moving Binder
A moving binder will have all the documents related to your move, like moving checklists, moving receipts, utility company info, floor plans, design ideas, contractor bids, medical records, school records, financial documents, moving company documents, and more.
Having all the relevant documentation in one place will help you better strategize and organize your move.
Decide on a Moving Date
When choosing the date of your move, there are several factors to take into consideration. If you hire a mover, you can save money by moving outside in the winter months or mid-week, which is a much less busy time for them and therefore doesn’t cost as much.
Once you have a date in mind, take a few days off in correlation with the date so you can adequately prepare. Also, make sure your pets and children are in a safe place and out of harm’s way.
DIY or Hire a Mover?
After you have scouted your home of all of your belongings, decided on a moving date, and are ready to take the first steps towards actually moving, you first have to make the important decision to do the move yourself or hire a mover.
Each option has pros and cons, but it will come down to your needs and pricing. Compare the costs attached to each and make an informed decision from there.
To help you make up your mind, check out our ‘Why hire a full service moving company? Pros & cons’ and ‘Great ways to save on a DIY move’ articles.
Schedule Utilities for Your New Place
Contact your utility providers and schedule service at your new home after you have decided on your new place and when you will be moving. As everyone knows, not having utilities will make moving into and living in your new home very difficult. Be sure to call ahead and keep records of your requests in your moving folder.
Also, when scheduling service at your new home, stop the service at your old house on your move-out date at the same time.
Gather All The Necessary Supplies
With everything in place, you can start looking for supplies to pack with. Some moving companies will provide moving supplies for a cost. Either way, make sure you look around your home and get a good idea of what you are bringing and the amount of moving supplies you will need.
If you are unsure how many boxes you will need for your move, ‘How many boxes do I need for a move?’ article.
Create a List of Each Boxes Contents
While packing your boxes, start making a detailed list of everything that is in each box. Not only will this help you keep track of all of your belongings, but it will also make unpacking much more manageable. An excellent method is to number each box and then write itemized lists for each corresponding numbered box.
Keep the Essentials Items with You
When packing everything away, don’t pack items you will need daily. Pack a separate suitcase with clothes, toiletries, medication, your moving binder, and anything else you may need while moving.
These helpful tips will help you organize your move to ensure the process goes over as efficiently as possible.
To learn more about packing efficiently, check out our ‘The best order to pack your home’ article.
